A headache can make an hour seem like a week. Try one of the following the next time you have a headache and need relief:

Take a non-prescription pain reliever. Be sure to follow the directions on the packaging. If your headache is related to allergies or a cold, ask your doctor to recommend a decongestant.

Make sure you are getting enough sleep every night.

Get outside and enjoy the fresh air.

Take 10 minutes a day for some mild exercise.

If possible, take a nap.

If the headache seems to be related to tension or stress, try to get away from the source of tension for a while.

Lie down with a heating pad on your neck and shoulders, or have someone gently rub the muscles in your neck and shoulders. Applying cold works as well. Instead of ice, try putting a bag of frozen peas on the back of your neck. This may be more effective because you can drape the bag around your neck.